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A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old female client who complains of back pain and a loss of height over the past few years.
The client states, "I used to be taller, and now my back always hurts." What is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints?

Kyphosis.

Joint stiffness.

Muscle weakness.

Decreased appetite.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Kyphosis is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints.

Kyphosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that causes a forward rounding of the back.

It is commonly associated with osteoporosis in older adults, especially postmenopausal women.

As bone density decreases due to osteoporosis, the vertebrae become more susceptible to compression fractures, which can lead to the characteristic hunched posture seen in kyphosis.

This abnormal curvature can cause back pain and a noticeable loss of height, aligning with the client's complaints.

Choice B rationale:

Joint stiffness is less likely to be the primary finding in this case.

While osteoporosis can lead to joint discomfort and stiffness, it is not the primary cause of the client's symptoms.

The client's complaint of back pain and loss of height is more indicative of a spinal issue such as kyphosis.

Choice C rationale:

Muscle weakness is also less likely to be the primary finding in this case.

While muscle weakness can contribute to posture changes and back pain, it is often a secondary effect of conditions like osteoporosis.

The client's primary concern is the change in height and persistent back pain, which are better explained by kyphosis.

Choice D rationale:

Decreased appetite is unrelated to the client's musculoskeletal complaints.

It is not a typical symptom of osteoporosis or kyphosis.

Therefore, it is not the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

This response by the nurse is accurate.

Bisphosphonates are a class of medications commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis.

They work by inhibiting bone resorption, which means they reduce the activity of cells that break down bone tissue (osteoclasts).

By doing so, bisphosphonates help prevent further bone loss and can increase bone density over time.

This mechanism of action is essential in managing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is not accurate.

Bisphosphonates do not increase calcium absorption in the intestines.

Instead, they primarily focus on regulating bone turnover and preventing bone resorption.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is also not accurate.

Bisphosphonates do not stimulate bone formation or promote collagen production.

Their primary role is to reduce bone resorption.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

Bisphosphonates are not primarily used to reduce pain associated with osteoporosis.

While they can indirectly reduce pain by preventing fractures, their main goal is to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

A. "Osteoporosis occurs when my body makes too much bone, causing it to become dense and heavy.” B. "The imbalance between bone resorption and formation results in weak and fragile bones.” C. "Osteoporosis happens because my body doesn't produce enough estrogen after menopause.” D. "Increased vitamin D levels lead to enhanced bone resorption and formation.”

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

The client's statement, "Osteoporosis occurs when my body makes too much bone, causing it to become dense and heavy," is incorrect.

Osteoporosis is characterized by a decrease in bone density, leading to weak and fragile bones, not an increase in bone production.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "The imbalance between bone resorption and formation results in weak and fragile bones," correctly explains the pathophysiology of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance in bone remodeling, with increased bone resorption (breakdown) compared to bone formation.

Choice C rationale:

The client's statement, "Osteoporosis happens because my body doesn't produce enough estrogen after menopause," is partially correct.

Estrogen deficiency after menopause is one of the factors contributing to bone loss in women, but it's not the sole cause of osteoporosis.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "Increased vitamin D levels lead to enhanced bone resorption and formation," is incorrect.

Adequate vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health, but excessive vitamin D levels do not lead to enhanced bone resorption and formation.

Instead, they can have adverse effects on other body systems.

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A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old female client who complains of back pain and a loss of height over the past few years. The client states, "I used to be taller, and now my back always hurts." What is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client recently diagnosed with osteoporosis is prescribed bisphosphonates. The client asks the nurse, "How do these medications work?" Which response by the nurse is accurate?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client recently diagnosed with osteoporosis expresses concern about the pathophysiology of the condition.Which statement by the client indicates a clear understanding of osteoporosis?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old female client who complains of back pain and a loss of height over the past few years. The client states, "I used to be taller, and now my back always hurts." What is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints?

A client with osteoporosis is prescribed medication to manage the condition.What is the nurse's primary responsibility when administering these medications?

A nurse is providing emotional support to a patient with osteoporosis.Which statement by the nurse is appropriate in assisting with pain management?

A nurse is discussing prevention strategies for osteoporosis with a group of middle-aged adults.Which strategy should the nurse emphasize as effective in reducing the risk of osteoporosis?

A nurse is providing education to a patient diagnosed with osteoporosis.Which statement by the nurse best reflects appropriate guidance regarding diet and nutrition?

A client with osteoporosis asks the nurse for advice on reducing the risk of fractures.Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

A nurse is providing education to a group of postmenopausal women about osteoporosis risk factors. Which statement made by one of the attendees indicates a need for further teaching?

(Select all that apply): A nurse is educating a group of postmenopausal women about strategies to prevent osteoporosis. Which lifestyle habits should the nurse recommend to this group? Select all that apply.

A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old female client who complains of back pain and a loss of height over the past few years.
The client states, "I used to be taller, and now my back always hurts." What is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints?